Anne in DC

My name is Anne Lord. I just recently turned 24 in June. I’m currently a young professional in Washington, DC navigating the political world!

Where are you located?

I’m living in DC, though I miss the Midwest daily.

Are you a cradle Catholic, convert or revert?

I’m a cradle Catholic. I’m forever grateful to the beautiful tribe of people around me bolstering my faith and daring me to go deeper into my relationship with Jesus.

What’s been the biggest game changer in your Catholic faith?

Coming to understand the beauty and fullness of the Eucharist has been the most impactful part of my faith. The best way I can describe it is through a passage in East of Eden by John Steinbeck. In the book, Lee and Samuel Hamilton are discussing Genesis 4:7 and its translation. In the verse, God speaks to Cain instructing him to behave rightly and he will avoid sin. Lee explains that the word timshel in Hebrew or “thou mayest” in the verse is important, for man may choose what’s right. This does not mean he will, but he has the ability to be good. In my understanding, the Eucharistic is the same as God whispering this verse. When we receive the living God, we are reminded that we may be good. It is our choice and we are fortified by the Eucharist.

Name a saint you identify with and share why.

I’ve always felt drawn to St. Thomas More. My grandfather, a judge and lawyer, introduced me to him when I was young with the play A Man for all Seasons. More excelled in his career as a lawyer and public servant; King Henry VIII even consider him a personal friend. Yet far more impressive than his earthly accomplishments was the depth of his faith. When asked to provide council against his faith, he did not waiver. He gave up his career, his friendships, and eventually his life. In doing, he defended the church and protected the souls of others. Since my grandfather’s passing, I’ve drawn closer in my devotion to the saint. I pray that I might have some of his courage and wisdom especially in my season of public servitude.

When have you felt most valued as a woman in the Church?

I feel most empowered and valued as a woman in the Church when I look at the incredible women who have gone before me. We have women who crossed oceans to education, women who charged into battle to protect those they loved, women who through their quiet prayer uplifted the downtrodden, women who faced martyrdom with their heads held high, and women who loved those deemed unlovable. As Catholic women, we have such a beautiful history of being pillars in the Church. I feel blessed to have the multitude of faithful servants I can look to as models for serving Christ.

What’s your favorite way to pray?

Sometimes it’s hard for me to calm all the thoughts buzzing around in my head, so I really love the Divine Mercy Chaplet. The repetition helps me get in a meditative state where I can really focus and give all attention to God.

Favorite liturgical holiday?

It may seem odd to say that it’s my favorite given the solemnness, but I really love Tridium. Holy Thursday in particular is so deeply moving to me. As we strip the alter and sing Pange Lingua, I can’t help but feel poignancy of Christ’s suffering.

What do you do for fun?

I spend my spare time reading, working out, and sipping scotch with those I love.

Three words that describe you — go!

I’ll be honest, I had to ask a few of my girlfriends to help me out with this one! Tenacious, intentional, witty